Roger Bates, Mypolonga Football Club life member, remembered as cheerful larrikin and loving father

The family of a 75-year-old Murraylands footy stalwart has described their heartbreak at the loss of a man who “didn’t have anything bad to say about anyone”.

Roger Bates, far right, with his wife Judith and daughter Cassandra celebrating the 2019 RMFL premiership cup won by Mypolonga. Picture: Supplied by family

The heartbroken family of 75-year-old Roger Bates has spoken out about the loss of the beloved family man and stalwart of the Mypolonga Football Club.

Mr Bates died at home on October 2 after a long battle with illness.

The victim’s son, Ian Bates, said his father had lived a remarkable life and was well respected by those around him.

“He was dead-set honest and said exactly how he felt. He didn’t have anything bad to say about anyone and rarely spoke in anger,” Mr Bates said.

Mr Bates said his father’s magnetic personality attracted a “huge” number of sincere friends.

“Many people took an instant liking to Roger… he loved banter and stirring the pot,” Mr Bates said.

Roger was married for 56 years to Judith and the couple had two sons, Ian and Kym, and a daughter, Cassandra.

Mr Bates said his parents were united in support of their children and grandchildren – supporting just about every single event their kids were involved in.

Mr Bates senior was a football lover and served the Mypolonga Football Club for 40 years.

“He had an astute footy brain and has had many roles at the footy club including coaching the under-17s, A-grade selector, committee member and trainer,” Mr Bates said.

“He is remembered as one of the best recruiting officers the club has seen.”

In a statement, the footy club said their community had been shocked by Mr Bates’ death.

Roger Noel Bates, who died on October 6. Picture: Facebook

“Our Tiger community is saddened to acknowledge the passing of Roger Bates. Roger and his family have been passionate Tiger supporters over many years,” the club said.

“Roger was a proud life member and part of the Tigers’ ’89, ’90, ’91 and ’94 grand final wins; we will all continue to remember and love Roger’s cheeky wit and fun banter.”

Born at Lameroo in the Murray Mallee in 1946, Roger left school when he was 15 and farmed with his brother Glen, spending years clearing scrub, fencing, building sheds, and building a home.

A career move in 1982 saw Roger sell his farm in the Mallee and purchase a chicken broiler farm in Murray Bridge.

Later he purchased an aluminium welding business and from that developed bridge aluminium. Under the Allweld brand, he manufactured aluminium ladders.

Allweld became one of the leading ladder manufacturers for domestic and industrial use in Australia.

Mr Bates said illness had made his father’s last few years uncomfortable, but he faced it with courage.

“He loved the many visitors who came to see him and his smirk was never too far away,” Mr Bates said.

“He never complained, and was brave and strong until the very end.”